Small Beginnings
Charles Mackay
Charles Mackay
Charles Mackay was a Scottish poet, journalist, author, anthologist, novelist, and songwriter. He was educated at the Caledonian Asylum in London and then went on to study languages at a school in Brussels. Mackay was born in Perth, Scotland on March 27, 1814 and died in London on December 24,1889.
"Small Beginnings" is a poem about little actions resulting in major victories. In the poem, Mackay uses four separate stories to deliver one unified message. All four stories show that what requires little effort for one, might mean the world for another, or even multitudes. The message of this poem is to not pass up an opportunity to do some good, especially if it is of little cost to do. One should take the perspective of those that could be helped through their generosity. This poem has a tone of humbleness and accomplishment.